In the expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), *Captain America: Brave New World* marks a significant milestone as the fourth installment in the Captain America saga. This film not only introduces Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America, taking over from Chris Evans' Steve Rogers, but it also ties up several loose threads from one of the MCU's earliest films, *The Incredible Hulk*. In many ways, *Brave New World* can be seen as a sequel to *The Incredible Hulk*, albeit without the titular character himself.

Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images

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Tim Blake Nelson’s The Leader

*The Incredible Hulk* set the stage for a major antagonist with the introduction of Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, who transforms into The Leader. Initially an ally to Edward Norton's Bruce Banner, Sterns' fascination with gamma research hints at his unethical ambitions. His transformation begins after exposure to Banner's gamma-irradiated blood, setting the stage for his evolution into The Leader—a villain with intellect matching Hulk's strength. This plot thread, left dangling since 2008, is finally picked up in *Brave New World*. Sterns, after being taken into S.H.I.E.L.D. custody and later escaping, now plays a pivotal role in the conspiracy surrounding Captain America and President Ross. His superhuman intelligence makes him a formidable adversary for Sam Wilson and Danny Ramirez's Falcon.

Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross

Alongside The Leader, *Brave New World* brings back Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, marking her long-awaited return to the MCU. Betty, who fell in love with Bruce Banner during their college days, played a crucial role in his transformation into the Hulk. Despite her father's obsessive pursuit of Banner, Betty supported him in his quest for a cure. After *The Incredible Hulk*, Betty's life took a backseat until she was temporarily snapped out of existence in *Avengers: Infinity War*. Her role in *Brave New World* remains shrouded in mystery, but her expertise in gamma research and her strained relationship with her father, now President Ross, could be key elements of the plot. Fans are also curious if Betty will follow her comic book counterpart's path and become Red She-Hulk.

Harrison Ford’s President Ross/Red Hulk

The most overt connection to *The Incredible Hulk* is Harrison Ford's portrayal of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, now President of the United States. Originally played by William Hurt, Ross has been a central figure in the MCU since 2008, driven by his mission to control the Hulk. His transformation into Red Hulk in *Brave New World* is a significant plot point, reflecting his desire to protect the country using his new powers. Ross's character has evolved from a military general to a statesman, seeking to mend past errors and foster cooperation with the Avengers. However, his transformation into Red Hulk and the introduction of adamantium set the stage for a complex geopolitical narrative.

Ross's journey in the MCU has been marked by significant events, from his initial pursuit of Banner to his involvement in the Sokovia Accords and his brief appearance in *Black Widow*. His evolution into a more diplomatic figure, as described by director Julius Onah, adds depth to his character. The introduction of adamantium, a super-metal with vast potential, further complicates the geopolitical landscape, tying into the film's title, *Brave New World*.

Where Is The Hulk in Brave New World?

Despite *Brave New World*'s ties to *The Incredible Hulk*, Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner, aka Hulk, is notably absent from the film. Since his last appearance in *Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings*, Banner has evolved significantly, merging his intellect with Hulk's strength. His absence might be explained by his current commitments, such as his family of Hulks, including his cousin Jen Walters (She-Hulk) and his son Skaar. While a cameo or post-credits scene is possible, it seems that Captain America will face Red Hulk and The Leader without the Hulk's direct assistance.

As *Captain America: Brave New World* weaves together these threads from the MCU's past, it promises to be a thrilling continuation of the Captain America legacy while also serving as a de facto sequel to *The Incredible Hulk*. The film's exploration of new technologies like adamantium and the geopolitical implications thereof sets the stage for a brave new chapter in the MCU.